Which item should not be included in a phlebotomy kit?

A thermometer should not be included in a phlebotomy kit because it is not a standard tool used during the blood collection process. The primary purpose of a phlebotomy kit is to facilitate the safe and effective collection of blood samples, which requires specific items that directly relate to that task.

Needles, for instance, are essential for drawing blood, while alcohol swabs are used to disinfect the site of the venipuncture to help prevent infection. A sharps container is crucial for the safe disposal of used needles and other sharp instruments, ensuring that they are handled safely and reducing the risk of needlestick injuries. In contrast, a thermometer does not play a role in the blood collection procedure, which is why it is not considered a necessary component of a phlebotomy kit.